Lakeland High School’s girls’ soccer team is looking forward to pushing a youth movement this season.

The Lady Cavs are in their second season under the direction of coach Adam Smith. This season, the Lady Cavs will only have three seniors and will start four freshmen. Smith feels that his team will be further along this year than they were last year.

“I’ve liked the way we’ve practiced so far,” Smith said. “We’ve been at it since November, and a lot of these girls have played club ball, which should help.”

Smith laid the groundwork for the program last year, and he feels his players have taken to it well. With a team filled with freshmen and sophomores, Smith wanted to grab those players early so they can all develop. He feels that all of his young players are prepared to play on the varsity level.

“They’re athletes, and they want to be coached and be competitive,” Smith said. “It has been fun, and we are all taking the steps together.”

Lakeland will be returning Darcy Kilgore this season. The sophomore was an all-conference selection last year. Sydney and Hayley Beale will also be returning for the Lady Cavs after having strong field hockey seasons in the fall. Smith believes his team will be solid up the middle of the field.

The Lady Cavs have a goal to qualify for regionals this year, and that could very well be attainable. Smith believes his team has a good chance to finish second in the conference and carry on throughout the playoffs. Reaching regionals will be a big step for Smith’s young team.

“I like our chances in our conference,” Smith said. “The girls set goals, and they want to strive for them.”

The Lady Cavs are currently 0-1 after taking their first loss to Western Branch High School Thursday evening. Lakeland is a smaller school compared to the schools they face in the Southeastern District.

Next, Lakeland will play Great Bridge on the road at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday.